Thank you for attending the 2018 National Gathering and Day of Fasting

Watch the 2018 National Gathering and Day of Fasting Highlight reel

We want to express our deep gratitude for the thousands who joined us in standing up to end violence against women and children on October 18th, the day of our National Gathering and Day of Fasting. It was an honour to host our Gathering on Algonquin territory – miigwetch.

The day was spent in ceremony, providing space to reflect about our actions and truly be present together as we work towards a future where women and children are safe, respected, and loved. Over 300 people gathered together in the Shaw Centre for a morning of reflection and impassioned addresses from Paul, Raven, and Sage Lacerte, as well as a moving address from Elder Mike Mitchell. Together, we learned about the very real importance of ending violence, of practicing culture and getting back to one’s roots, and of being genuine and truthful in a space where too often we are silenced. Healing circles were held so groups could share their stories and feel the power of their connection to others, as well as the power of their voices.

Hundreds more joined us on the Walk to End Violence Against Women, which took us from Confederation Park to gather on Parliament Hill, where we were inspired by the fierceness of youth Daxton’s speech and honoured by Minister Carolyn Bennett’s words of support.

We are so grateful to those who led our afternoon cultural workshops – the Elders, knowledge-keepers, activists, and community leaders – and nourished our minds and hearts with their teachings. Furthermore, we want to thank everyone who spoke throughout the day, sharing their stories and what this Campaign means to them.

The National Gathering was truly an impactful day and we are so honoured to see the overwhelming amount of love and support you continually give us; it strengthens us to continue doing this crucial work, now with you by our sides.

To those who joined us in Ottawa: thank you. To those who stood with us virtually: thank you. To those who joined our livestream: thank you. To those who fasted with us: thank you. To those who wore and shared their moose hide pins: thank you. Thank you!

The 3rd annual National Moose Hide Campaign Gathering and Day of Fasting in Ottawa is part of the expanded Moose Hide Campaign days of Fasting and Support. This event brought together members of Parliament, senators, Aboriginal leaders, service leaders, the philanthropic community, community leaders, public servants and other guests.

Participants listened to speakers of honour and took part in ceremonies in support of efforts to end violence against women and children. These efforts included a day of fasting, participation in ceremonies and healing circles for men and women, and a feast at sunset marking the end of the fast.

Why participate in the Moose Hide Campaign fast?

On an early August morning in 2011, Paul Lacerte and his daughter Raven were hunting moose near the infamous Highway of Tears.

They had brought down a moose that would help feed their family for the winter and provide a moose hide for cultural purposes. As Raven was skinning the moose she and her father couldn't help but realize how close they were to the highway that has brought so much sorrow to communities along the long and winding path. Paul knew his young daughter deserved a life free of violence and as they spoke and worked, and idea came to them.

What if they used the moose hide to inspire men to become involved in the movement to end violence towards Aboriginal women and children?

Together with family and friends they cut up the moose hide into small squares and started the Moose Hide Campaign. Over six years more than 1,000,000 squares of Moose Hide have been distributed and the grassroots campaign has spread to communities and organizations across Canada. Local campaigns have started in government offices, colleges, universities, on First Nations reserves, in Friendship Centres and, importantly, within individual Indigenous families.

We will continue to ask men to take positive and concrete steps forward in standing up and speaking out against violence towards women and children. By taking part in this one day fast you are showing your love and respect for the women in your life and supporting their right for peace and safety in their homes and communities.

Paul Lacerte, co-Founder –Moose Hide Campaign

Resourcesto help you during the Gathering

The Moose Hide Campaign is a call to action to all men in Canada to stand shoulder to shoulder to show ourselves, each other, and all Canadians that violence is no longer tolerated in our communities and society. We invite men to fast with us to stand up against violence towards women and children. Should you choose to respond to this call to action, we have put together a simple guide to explain the significance of the fast for the Moose Hide Campaign, offer some guidance in setting your intention, and to highlight some tips to ensure your safety. Read More

The Moose Hide Campaign is a grassroots movement of Indigenous and non-Indigenous men and boys who are standing up against violence towards women and children. Wearing the Moose Hide signifies your commitment to honour, respect, and protect the women and children in your life and to work together with other men to end violence against women and children. This is a powerful idea and a commitment that is long over-due. But what about the role of Women in the Moose Hide Campaign? Read More

The question has been raised on a number of occasions as to why we use Moose Hide as the symbol for the Moose Hide Campaign and how it is associated to ending violence against women and children. The Moose Hide Campaign is open to receiving questions as one of the main objectives of the Campaign is to generate respectful dialogue. Read More

We encourage men and women to join us for the Moose Hide Campaign Gatherings and Days of Fasting. Each year there events held in Victoria and in Ottawa where men and women fast together. However, many will fast in their home communities throughout the country. This is an essential part of the Moose Hide Campaign and we want to ensure you are supported as you fast wherever you are. Here are some ideas to support you in your fast. Read More